Lingerie Sale...Ladies & Gents beat the holiday rush and Stock Up!

My favorite lingerie store, Beneath The Gown in Clinton, is having a BLOW OUT sale to kick off the start of the HOLIDAY SHOPPING SEASON!

Check out their blog for more details!

Guys...if you're not sure what to get your lovely ladies for the holiday, why not treat them to a lingerie makeover! Josie, Owner of Beneath The Gown, will personally help to pick out the right pieces for the lady you love. You can also purchase a gift certificate to let your lady surprise you with her picks! (wink, wink!)

Ladies...stop in this amazing boutique and register for your favorite pieces...help your man out!! Or pick up great gift sets for your friends, sister, mother or for a bride to be! Even better...treat yourself to something special!

Don't miss out on this great sale!!

My search for rain booties is over....LOVE THESE!!!

Nina Rain Bow Booties...

I think they speak for themselves!!

Available online at SenseOfFashion.com

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

The 2nd Annual Chica Guapa Clothing Swap was a BIG Success!!

THANK YOU FOR DONATING!!

Thank you to all the ladies who attended and contributed to TWO GREAT causes!

I am so happy to report that we did meet our goal and surpass our donation amount from last year for the Susan G. Komen For The Cure Foundation! This year, the money we raised will be donated in honor of a very special woman- Lucia Contento. Lucia is the sister of Laura Malangone, owner of Studio Elle Salon. Lucia is not only beautiful woman inside and out, but she is courageous and strong for winning her battle against breast cancer!

We give thanks to everyone for supporting the cause and hope that all of us FABULOUS ladies continue to ban together, support eachother and live the amazing lives we so deserve!

SPECIAL THANKS!

A great big special thank you to my fabulous event partner and talented hair dress, Laura Malangone for hosting the event with me!

Thank you also to our on the spot makeover winer Jaclyn Klein for being such a GREAT sport! You looked gorgeous before, but you were one HOT lady after hair, make up and wardrobe!!!

Special THANKS also goes out to all of the vendors who supported the event and donated all the raffle prizes:

*Studio Elle Salon

*Eli's on Whitney

*Valentino Productions

*Integrated Aesthetics

*Camouflage Boutique

*Eli’s on Whitney - Hamden

* Beneath The Gown Lingerie

* Celebrity Brows

* FUZION

* Posh Skin & Nails

* Light Thief Photography, LLC

* New Haven Fitness

* LA Fitness

* Valentino Tailors

STRIVE NEW HAVEN

I also want to thank Brian from STRIVE New Haven for attending the event and picking up all of the donated items.

*Many of you expressed interest in volunteering at STRIVE New Haven. Please email me directly so that I can coordinate a night or two for us to go as a group! alicia@chicagaupaimage.com

SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR CLOTHING SWAP ATTENDEES!

Each of you that signed the Clothing Swap guest list will receive a 20% off of any Chica Guapa Service! The Holidays and special events are coming, so be sure to book your appointment now! Also, group swaps, fashion parties and theme events can also be booked!

View my website for a listing of services. Customized services always available! Send me an email or give me a call to book!

www.chicaguapaimage.com

THE 2ND ANNUAL CLOTHING SWAP EVENT- MONDAY, OCTOBER 11TH

LADIES....TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE FOR THE SECOND ANNUAL CLOTHING SWAP EVENT!

Come enjoy a night of guilt free "shopping" and contribute to two great causes!

Hosted by Alicia Trotta, Chica Guapa Image Consulting and Laura Malangone of Studio Elle Salon.

THE DETAILS:

Date: Monday, October 11, 2010

Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

*Arrive by 6:30 p.m. for a smooth swap set up!

Place: Eli's on Whitney, 2392 Whitney Ave - Hamden. Event will be held downstairs.

Tickets: $20.00 in advance. ($25.00 at the door).

*Purchase directly from Alicia Trotta -call 646-296-3480 or email alicia@chicaguapaimage; or Laura Malangone at Studio Elle - 203-288-7017.

A FUN GIRL'S NIGHT OUT!

Food & Drink: Enjoy light refreshments to help keep your swapping energy high! All drinks can be purchased from the bar.

Raffle Prizes & Giveaways: Once again, we will have fabulous raffle prizes and giveaways! Raffle tickets are only $1.00 or a book of 15 for $10.00.

Fashion & Beauty Tips: Chica Guapa will share some makeover ideas and wardrobe tips. Studio Elle will share some makeup and hair trends for the upcoming seasons. And this year, one lucky attendee will receive an instant beauty and fashion makeover!

HELP US DONATE: Two great causes to contribute to! Once again, a portion of our event's proceeds will be donated to the Susan G. Komen For The Cure Foundation. Help us to beat our goal from last year! Also, we are asking all attendees to bring a couple of items to donate to STRIVE New Haven. A gently used suit, blouse, purse or pair of shoes will greatly help our local women in need of career clothing. Please help spread the word and forward this invitation on to your friends and co-workers. It will surely be a FUN girls night out!

WHAT IS A CLOTHING SWAP?

A clothing swap is a great way for us to put our new, nearly new or gently used wardrobe items, that we no longer wear, to good use!

THE RULES OF THE SWAP:
Please bring a maximum of 5 clothing swap items, as detailed below, and one pair of Jeans (optional) to the event with the intention that someone else will take them home and wear them.
*Take the time to go through your closet and determine which items are not right for your color tone or body shape. Be sure the item is worthy to pass along to one of our group of fabulous ladies!! If you need help, contact Chica Guapa for a full service closet organizing session!
*All items must be new, like new or gently worn. Should be clean and pressed. We want to simulate a true shopping experience!

*Items can be for any season. Summer pieces are still fine and Fall and Winter are great!

5 CLOTHING ITEMS: *Not required, but helpful if you bring the 5 items as noted below.

· Bring 3 clothing items in any of these categories -Chic, Moderate, Expensive

Chic – inexpensive items, less than $40.00, costume jewelry.
Moderate- any clothing items priced between $50.00 - $150.00. Moderately priced jewelry. Clothes from the Gap, JCrew.
Expensive- any clothing items or accessories valued over $150.00 - $200.00. Designer.

· Bring 2 accessories: -purses, jewelry, hats, belts or shoes.

• Jean Swap Shop (new this year!): We all have at least one pair of jeans that is either too big, too small or just doesn't hug the booty in the right spots! Here's your chance to bring one pair that you don't wear and take a "new" pair home! The Jean Swap Shop is optional.

*How it works: You will be given a color coded ticket for each category item you bring, and one Jean Swap ticket if you bring a pair of jeans. You will "shop" in each category “boutique” and select an item for yourself. If you bring 2 chic items and 3 expensive then, in turn, you can shop for 2 chic and 3 expensive items. Continue shopping each boutique until your tickets are gone! Last year everyone walked away with something they loved, and I'm sure this year will have the same results!

GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

Do YOU Have A Personal Brand That Is Sure To Impress?

This month I had the pleasure of being one of the guest speakers at the Quinnipiac University Annual Career Day. My topic was "Creating A Personal Brand That Makes The Best First Impression". This topic is near and dear to me, as many of you know. Having had experience in the corporate world as a Human Resources Director and now experience within Fashion and Image Consulting, I can attest that achieving the right image will set you apart from the competition. Part of the branding process involves how you dress. Dressing your very best - all of the time- will increase your confidence and will always leave you open for the best opportunities. This message is important to apply to both your personal and professional goals.

During the presentation, the Alumni Deans at QU helped me to demonstrate appropriate attire for interviews and other business events. They also helped to point out what NOT to wear, which is being demonstrated in the photo to the left.

After my presentation, I spoke with many of the attendees and was thrilled to hear that they felt re-charged and ready for my help with their wardrobe, closet organizing and career "makeovers"! I am thrilled to meet with some of the folks over the next couple of weeks and give them coaching on all aspects of their new career image, as well as interview tips, networking tactics and goal setting.

I thought it would be beneficial to share some of the tips with all of you, my loyal followers! I've pasted below a few key points. If you'd like me to send you a copy of the full length handout, please email me. The bottom line is, whether you are job searching, looking to advance in your career, or even want to give your personal life a boost, you need to create your own brand that is sure to "WOW" others from the moment they meet you. I can help you to achieve your best image that will give you this that you need! Contact me for a consultation. And if you are in career transition or a recent graduate, you'll receive a special discount!

A quick note of thanks must go out to the amazing team at the Quinnipiac University Alumni Office, my creative designer Jennifer Callahan from Hazel Bleu in Seattle and of course the New Haven Register for putting my picture on the cover of the Business Section!

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Network Your Way to SUCCESS!

▪ Always carry a business card! Even if you are not yet employed, have your contact information printed and carry it with you. Think of every place you go as an opportunity to meet people. Show that you care about your brand and are ready and available to network and offer your services or expertise. ▪ Contribute to conversations, but do not overpower them. Share your network and contacts with others who might benefit. Show your value! Branch out at networking events. Do not be tempted to stay in the corner with the group you already know. Make it a goal to meet two to three new people at each event. Always strive to build your network.

▪ Determine which local networking groups could be beneficial to you. Attend Chamber of Commerce and business networking events. Keep in touch with your college connections and attend alumni

▪ Keep your contacts organized. Get a binder or business card portfolio. Write a note on the card indicating the date, where you met and one buzzword or identifier for that person so you will remember them. Always follow up with a thank you, via phone or email. Re-establish the connection you just made and show those whom you have met that you want to be a part of their network and enjoyed meeting them. ▪ Always follow through on what you have promised. Prove that you are reliable and can take action!

____________________________________________________ YOUR UNIQUE PERSONAL BRAND ü Branding is about building a name for yourself, showcasing what sets you apart from others and describing the added value you bring. ü Like a popular product brand, a unique personal brand will help you to stand out. ü Branding helps define who you are, what you have to offer and why you should be sought out. ü A major component of your brand is your appearance and how you present yourself to others. ü A successful brand is one you identify with and can confidently promote.

NAME ▪ REPUTATION ▪ QUALITY ▪ PERFORMANCE ▪ APPEARANCE ▪ PROMISE OF VALUE

Dressing To Impress- The Interview

SUIT UP! For interviews and business events, always wear a suit. If the dress code for a business event is deemed casual, wear or bring a sport jacket to ensure you are dressed appropriately. Women should always be conservative with necklines and skirt lengths. Always dress the part! COLOR THEORY. Add color appropriately. Dark suits and neutrals are great for your business wardrobe, but don’t be afraid to use color in ties and shirts. Pick hues that complement your skin tone and personality and make you feel your personal best. COORDINATION IS KEY! Be sure you have coordinated belts, shoes, socks, hosiery and totes. These details in your outfit help you to look put together and stand out amongst the competition. Make sure your outerwear is also a good match for your outfit. Invest in a great coat for each season. MORE THAN WORDS. Consider your body language while interviewing and networking. Always make eye contact. Be energetic but also mature and poised. Show you are interested and alert. Avoid distracting cell phone texts and calls during events, networking sessions and especially interviews!

Cheers To Our Moms!

Mother's Day is this Sunday, May 9th. Here are some great ideas for showing all the moms in your life how much you care!

For a new or expecting mom....

Check out these adorable handmade baby wipe cases by Rico and Chloe. These two stay at home moms came up with a fashionable solution for your wipes! The patterns are stylish and fun! My favorite is the Sofia. Each case is only $20. For ordering information check out their website.

For the mom that loves the big apple...

How about scoring some tickets to for you and mom to check out Central Park's Shakespeare in the Park. This summer's hit "Merchant of Venice" is starring Al Pacino. Let her know you'll see the show, have a fabulous lunch in the city and mix in some shopping at some of my favorite Upper West Side Boutiques. Shakespeare and shopping in the big city...just what mom will love!

For the mom that's into fitness...

How about an outfit or a gift card from Lululemon Athletica, coming soon to downtown New Haven! Lululemon has a great selection of clothing for yoga, running, dancing and more! They also offer in store yoga sessions and events. Had a more active gift in mind? Then take part in Fresh Yoga's "Introduce Your Mom To Yoga" event. This Sunday they are offering a free class at their Erector Square location in New Haven from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm. Also consider a gift certificate for personal training sessions... contact me if interested!

For the mom that loves wine...

How about checking out one of the local wineries on the Connecticut Wine Trail. (That's where my family will be!) Pack a picnic and enjoy the day sampling some delicious wines and reminiscing about your favorite family memories. Notice which wine your mom enjoys the most, sneak away and buy her a couple bottles to take home!

For the Fashionista mom...

Well isn't it obvious?! Get them a Chica Guapa Gift Certificate! What mom wouldn't want their own stylist for a day? A closet organizing session and seasonal color analysis? Or a fun day of shopping focused all on her. Show your mom you care enough to have her look and feel her very best! Contact me today if interested in purchasing a gift certificate! I'll include a special starter set of velvet hangers and a Chica Guapa shopping tote!

Happy Mothers Day to all of the amazing mom's out there! Thanks for all that you do!

Don't Miss Cynthia Vincent Shoes At Target April 18th!

I think I'm in love!! Cynthia Vincent has a new line of shoes exclusively at Target. If wedges aren't your thing, check out her adorable ballet flats or gladiators. All reasonably priced.

The line was launched today, April 18th, so hurry to Target and scoop up a couple pairs before they are all gone!

Turn Your Closet Into Your Very Own Boutique!

Take a moment and think about your favorite stores. Why do you like shopping there? Chances are the places you shop at offer you the following things: a visually enticing space, organized merchandise, ease of shopping, variety and up to date styles, quality and value.

If your favorite retailer failed to keep up with inventory updates, would you continue to shop there, knowing you'll see the same pieces over and over? If your favorite store was disorganized and cluttered, would you continue to spend time there, struggling to sift through all of the racks? Leaving your closet disorganized, out dated and visually uninviting will force you to shop elsewhere!

So....why not set up your closet like your favorite boutique? Instead of having a space that you dread going to and repeating "I have nothing in my closet to wear", get yourself organized and create a space that lures you in. Think of all the shopping you'll want to do, and the money you can save! Imagine having a rack of your clothes organized, color coded, hanging on matching hangers and ready to wear at any point in time? Your jewelery hanging on a stand and displayed in easy to access boxes and trays. Your inventory current and up to date and in your correct size. Imagine only having to invest time and money into the new pieces you really need, instead of impulse purchases?

Ready to get started?! Contact Chica Guapa for your wardrobe analysis and closet organizing session. We'll take inventory of everything you have, decipher what needs to be altered or donated and create a punch list of what you'll need to shop for. For each of my clients, I provide an easy to use spreadsheet of their active wardrobe inventory. The list can be sorted by type, designer, date purchased and season for easy reference. It's great to print out and bring with you when shopping, helping you avoid making a purchase you don't need. When items are donated, that can also be pulled from the list and made easier for your tax filing! I'll also help you organize and color code your closet, including new hangers and storage that will protect your clothes and create the enticing space you deserve. Your closet will soon put your favorite shop to shame!

Happy Shopping!

Some Great Purses For This Spring!

In search of the perfect bag for this Spring? Check out these great finds from Chica Guapa!

This Faux Leather Satchel featured in Teal, one of the season's hottest colors, is a great bargain from Old Navy. It can be the perfect accessory to brighten up an outfit and has great storage space and compartments. Priced at only $14.99, it's a must grab! To the right is a soft leather tote from Michael Kors featured in blush pink. This bag will help soften up your black outfit or suit!

This leather Marquee Tote from JCrew is gorgeous in Pale Almond. A sophisticated bag that will transition well from work to evening with the versatile handle and strap options.

This Paloma Clutch by Lela Rose for Payless Shoes is adorable, and so inexpensive!! Pair it with jeans and a cute navy and white striped tshirt for a nautical look!

Have a more creative flare to your style? Then check out this adorable Robin Black Birdy Bag by IKA, sold on Etsy.com. It's hand made in France and 100% pure cotton canvas. It's the perfect compliment to your casual outfit for a day of strolling around town. The birds are ready for Spring, and now so are you!

Need a cool clutch for a night out on the town? This Delhi Clutch from Big Buddah in cream, teal or gunmetal is perfect! Also from Big Buddah, this Sadie handbag which comes in several great colors - Blue(shown), fuchsia, black, orange, white and green. And now you can purchase Big Buddah bags online!

Not sure which bag will compliment your body shape and height? Contact Chica Guapa for a consultation. Have purses that you no longer use? Contact me for information on what organizations are in need of donations.

Happy Spring!!

Alicia

Silver Lining Prom Dress Recycle Program In Fairfield

The annual "Silver Lining" Prom Dress Recycle Program is seeking donations of up-to-date formal dresses; clean & ready to wear. Jewelry, purses & shoes in new condition are also wanted to benefit teens with financial need. There will be an ongoing collection site at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 661 Old Post Road in Fairfield, CT. Hours are Monday - Friday, 9:00 am-8:00 pm; Saturday & Sunday 9:00 am-6:00 pm. Donations must be received by March 27, 2010. For those who cannot make the drive to Fairfield, I am also collecting donations and dropping off to a friend involved with the program. Please contact me as soon as possible to make arrangements. I know we all enjoy playing dress up in our old prom gown, but just think about the good cause it's going to!!!

Planning An Escape To Paradise?

For those of us that must endure the harsh winter months, thoughts of sunshine and fresh pina coladas are dancing in our heads! Whether you are heading to the islands with your sweetie, cruising with your gal pals or taking the family on an adventure, make sure you have these must haves items in your suitcase!

BEAUTY

Just in time for your trip are these TSA approved travel size products for body, face and hair, as seen onDaily Candy. Check out all the available brands and products online at 3floz.com. Going for a pre-trip pedicure? Be sure to check out Party In My Cabana Pink, from OPI.

STYLE

First, a stylish cover up for the beach or pool scene is a must! Featured below, a Cyclades Cover-Up from Anthropologie gorgeous in green and blue hues. Even better, it's cotton and machine washable! Also from Anthropologie, this amazing one piece plunging halter bathing suit, Ebbing Tide Maillot. Next, a great dress from JCrew - the Saturday Twist Dress featured in Moroccan Spice. Perfect for strolling around town after a day at the beach and can wear right into the night with great pair of chandelier earrings. A fabulous printed shift dress from BCBG, also very versatile and easy to pack! Don't forget an outfit for the plane and taxi ride. From Forever 21, a thick knit wrap cardigan featured below in grey or a Ponte Pant and Jacket from Jana Kos are sure to keep you comfy and cozy on the plane, but still stylish! Throw on a colorful scarf to brighten up the look. A great printed beach bag in bright colors paired with a white dress is the ultimate look for the tropics. Palmetto Pacific Beach Bag and white Ain't Missbehavin Dress both from Trina Turk. Floppy hat featured below is from Forever 21 and scarf is from Banana Republic. You're sure to be chic in the tropics!

PACK LIKE A PRO

*Try to pack wrinkle free fabrics. The last thing you want to do is iron on vacation!

*Pack a neutral palette that allows you to mix and match. Bring a pashmina to use as a stylish wrap at night, and can also double as your blanket on the plane!

*Plan outfits around only one or two pairs of shoes. Remember, style is key, but so is comfort! These two pairs, plus your workout sneakers and beach flip flops will already take up a chunk of space in your suitcase.

*Pack one small ziplock or mesh bag for your carry on filled with your prescriptions and key medicines like Motrin, Bandaids, Benedryl and Tums.

*Layer a couple of plastic bags at the bottom and top of your suitcase to keep clothes protected and help prevent wrinkles. On your return home, you can use one of the bags to separate items for laundry.

Need help packing for your trip? Let Chica Guapa plan your perfect wardrobe capsule and advise on the best styles and fabrics for your destination of choice! Call today to book your appointment!